Bucculatrix ericameriae
Braun, 1963
Bucculatrix ericameriae is a small in the , described by Annette Frances Braun in 1963. It is known only from California, where in March. The feed on Ericameria arborescens, a shrub in the aster family. Like other members of its , it is commonly called a 'ribbed cocoon-maker moth' due to the distinctive ribbed structure of its larval cocoon.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Bucculatrix ericameriae: /bʌk.kʊˈleɪ.trɪks ɛr.ɪˈkæm.ɛr.i.aɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
of Bucculatrix ericameriae can be distinguished from other Bucculatrix by examination; external is generally insufficient for species-level identification in this . The genus Bucculatrix is characterized by narrow, forewings with pointed apices and relatively long . Adults are small, with wingspans typically under 15 mm. The larval cocoon is distinctive: a ribbed, silken structure attached to the plant or debris.
Habitat
Associated with stands of Ericameria arborescens, which grows in chaparral, coastal scrub, and open woodland in California.
Distribution
Known only from California, United States.
Seasonality
have been recorded on in March.
Diet
feed on Ericameria arborescens (goldenfleece, or bush goldenrod), a shrub in the Asteraceae.
Host Associations
- Ericameria arborescens - larval food plantAsteraceae; also known as goldenfleece or bush goldenrod
Life Cycle
are or skeletonizers on the plant. occurs within the characteristic ribbed cocoon, which gives the its of 'ribbed cocoon-maker '.
Similar Taxa
- Other Bucculatrix speciesNumerous occur in North America, many with similar appearance; accurate identification requires examination of or knowledge of plant association
- Phyllonorycter spp. (Gracillariidae)Similar small size and leaf-mining , but Phyllonorycter typically create blotch mines on leaves rather than the linear mines or skeletonizing feeding of Bucculatrix; often have more distinct patterning
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Annette Frances Braun, a prolific American lepidopterist who described hundreds of of microlepidoptera, particularly in the and .
Conservation status
No formal assessment available; known from limited records but this likely reflects the difficulty of detecting and identifying small rather than rarity.